Brian Dillard has seen his recruitment rise since late January. The Class of 2027 Florida Athlete has reported 10 scholarship during that time.

Iowa jumped into the mix on Jan. 26.

“(Wide receiver) coach (Jon) Budmayr came by the school and offered me after talking for a little bit,” Dillard said.

Following a productive sophomore season at Winter Garden (FL) West Orange High, the 6-foot, 165-pounder transferred to Orlando The First Academy for the 2025 campaign. As was the case at his previous school, Dillard proved to be dynamic with the ball in his hands.

Lining up at quarterback, the junior completed 60 percent of his passes for 839 yards and 11 touchdowns. A dual-threat weapon behind center, he rushed for 508 yards (6.0 YPC) and four scores. He also saw time at receiver, where he hauled in 13 balls for 183 yards and a pair of TDs. He averaged 26.3 yards on a trio of kick returns.

The complete performance kicked off a cascade of offers beginning with Virginia Tech and new coach James Franklin on Jan. 20. Maryland, Kansas State and UCLA were among the other programs extending opportunities. Purdue, Pittsburgh, Wake Forest, West Virginia and Kentucky reportedly offered last year.

Dillard still is open to all schools in his recruitment. The Hawkeyes certainly are in the running.

“After being offered and looking a little more into the school, they are definitely one of the schools I’m considering,” he said.

Research has led to intrigue when it comes to Iowa.

“I haven’t been up there, but I talked to the coach about their offense, and I liked it a lot. I would like to visit Iowa, probably sometime between May and June,” Dillard said.

A deliberate approach is being used to sort through options.

“I’m starting to look more into schools and setting up visits. The main things I’m looking for is development, coaching, the school and playing early,” he said.

Academics also are an important part of the process.

“I want to study some type of biology. I don’t know which one yet,” he said.

Dillard lists receiver and cornerback as his positions on his Hudl page.